GM and Manchester United Announce Chevrolet as Shirt Sponsor

Brand signs seven-year deal beginning in 2014

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Jul 30, 2012, 11:05 ET

DETROIT and MANCHESTER, England, July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- General Motors and Manchester United today announced that the world's most popular football club's shirt sponsor will be Chevrolet beginning with the 2014/2015 season. Chevrolet, the current Official Car Partner of the Club, will become only the fifth shirt sponsor in the Club's 134-year history.

Announcing the deal, signed for an undisclosed amount, United's Commercial Director Richard Arnold said:

"This is a fantastic, long-term deal for the Club. We have been partners with Chevrolet for only six weeks, but already they have produced some fantastic ideas that will benefit both the partnership and our 659 million followers around the world. They are a key partner on our current tour and I know they have enjoyed experiencing the buzz generated by our fanatical support and the sell-out crowds in South Africa, China, and Europe. It is a great thrill for those of us who work with partners all year round when an existing partner steps up to being one of our principal partners. This commitment to United and its fans will bring real benefits to everyone who cares about the Club."

The U.S.-based car company will replace Aon, whose partnership with United began in the 2010/11 season.

Alan Batey, GM North America vice president, U.S. Sales and Service, said:

"We are extremely proud to connect our brand, Chevrolet, with Manchester United and its passionate supporters all around the world. Manchester United's statistics are impressive, but this relationship goes far beyond the numbers – this relationship is about connecting our brand with the deep-seated emotion that surrounds the team everywhere it goes.

"When you consider the core values of Chevrolet, our passionate customers around the world, and our rich 100-year history, the partnership with Manchester United is a perfect fit. And, to be only the fifth name on the iconic red jersey is a genuine honor. We very much look forward to the road ahead and the opportunities we have in partnering with such a legendary club."

About Chevrolet

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world's largest car brands, doing business in more than 140 countries and selling more than 4 million cars and trucks a year. Chevrolet provides customers with fuel-efficient vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design and high quality. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

About Manchester United

Manchester United is the world's most popular football club, with an estimated 659 million followers and was recently named by Forbes magazine as the most valuable sports club in the world. Founded in 1878, the Club has won a record 19th English league championships to add to its record 11 English FA Cups, 3 European Cups, 1 European Cup Winners' Cup, 1 FIFA Club World Cup, 1 Intercontinental Cup and 4 English League Cups. Its Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, is the most successful manager in British history.

SOURCE General Motors